Citizen Science Programs

Watching birds is more popular than ever! Tens of thousands of Canadians share their energy, skill, and bird observations through Bird Studies Canada's bird surveys. These "Citizen Scientists" provide a tremendous service by volunteering their time to track the health of bird populations.

Research and Conservation

Using data from our targeted research initiatives and Citizen Science programs, and in collaboration with conservation partners, our scientists monitor bird population trends, investigate declines, and recommend actions to protect the health of ecosystems we all depend on.

Help Us Conserve Canada’s Birds

You can play an important role in conserving Canada's wild birds! Bird Studies Canada supporters provide charitable donations as well as making
valuable Citizen Science contributions. Our nationwide programs are focused on the highest-priority conservation needs for birds.

Toronto Summer Bird Count

Perhaps the urban Toronto area is not well known as a bird haven, but close
to 200 species nest here. Forested river valleys, ravines, parks, and yards
create a mosaic of green spaces that provide breeding sites for birds as
different as Pileated Woodpeckers and Ruby-throated Hummingbirds. City buildings
themselves host nests of at-risk species such as Common Nighthawks, Chimney
Swifts, Barn Swallows, and Peregrine Falcons.

The Toronto Summer Bird Count systematically and scientifically monitors
breeding birds in Canada's largest city. With our partner the Toronto
Ornithological Club, we count birds at the same set of predetermined locations
annually, allowing us to create a picture of how breeding bird abundance and
distribution change in the city over time. With every year of added data, our
count reveals new information about the city's breeding species.